The focus of this session is a K—5 urban school of 500 students, the vast majority of whom are from low-income families where English is not the primary home language. In 2002, the school was underperforming across the board, and a new principal took over. In three years, the school reached high-achievement status and the principal received a prestigious national award. Then he left. Participants will examine the pleasures and hardships of walking in the footsteps of a highly successful leader.